YouTube altered or synthetic content disclosure explained

Updated October 21, 2026 · Reviewed by The Rift team

Short answer

YouTube requires creators to disclose realistic content that was altered or made with AI, and viewers then see a 'How this content was made' note. Clearly unrealistic or fantasy content generally doesn't need it; the help page lists cases. If you post a Rift clip, where Spark, Rift's video agent, builds it from your photos, check the current rules in the upload screen and use the disclosure when it applies.

YouTube asks at upload whether your video contains realistic altered or synthetic content. Answer yes when it does, and viewers see a ‘How this content was made’ note.

What you need

A finished Rift video saved from your Library.
The YouTube app or YouTube Studio.
YouTube’s help page on disclosing altered or synthetic content.

Step by step

Make the video in Rift and tap Make once the Draft looks right.
Save it to your camera roll.
Upload as a Short in YouTube.
Find the altered or synthetic content question in the upload details.
Answer it using YouTube’s current rules for your clip.

Lines to try with Spark

“Me standing in front of a huge waterfall, calm and bright.”
“My dog driving a tiny car down my street.”
“My product on a marble table, slow camera push.”
“A city skyline at golden hour.”

Tips

If it could pass for real footage, disclose. That is the point of the question.
Obvious fantasy is a different case. Check YouTube’s page for examples.
Keep the answer consistent across your uploads.

Questions people ask

Do all AI videos need the disclosure?

No. YouTube's help page explains which kinds do. Check its current rules for your video.

Where is the setting?

In the upload details, as a question about altered or synthetic content. Menus change, so check the app.

Does it apply to Shorts?

YouTube's pages cover Shorts uploads too. Read the current rules before posting.

Does Rift upload to YouTube for me?

No. Rift doesn't post for you. Save from Library and upload yourself.